The Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA) has announced the rollout of strengthened Ebola preventive and health screening systems at the Freetown International Airport (FIA), following reports of recent emergence of Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) within parts of the sub-region.

The Authority said the measures are designed to enhance public health safety, protect passengers and airport personnel, and minimize the risk of cross-border transmission through Sierra Leone’s main international gateway.

According to the SLCAA, the intervention forms part of a proactive public health response aligned with national health directives and international aviation safety standards.

As part of the measures, continuous sensitization sessions have been introduced for health personnel at the airport, focusing on Ebola Virus Disease symptoms, transmission methods, and approved prevention protocols.

The Authority has also installed Ebola awareness and preventive signage across key areas of the terminal building to improve public understanding and encourage compliance with safety guidelines.

Mandatory hand sanitization has been enforced for all passengers, staff, and visitors at designated points within the airport, while routine temperature screening has been activated for all airport users as part of enhanced surveillance procedures.

The SLCAA further confirmed that the airport clinic is fully operational and on standby to manage any suspected health-related incidents in a timely and efficient manner.

In addition, social distancing measures are being implemented where necessary within passenger processing and waiting areas to reduce potential health risks.

An ambulance has also been stationed at the airport to ensure immediate emergency response and medical evacuation in the event of any suspected case.

The Authority assured the travelling public and aviation stakeholders that all systems have been activated in coordination with national health authorities to ensure a safe and secure airport environment.

The SLCAA urged passengers and airport users to remain calm, observe all health protocols, and cooperate fully with officials deployed at the facility.

It reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding public health while maintaining the integrity and operational safety of Sierra Leone’s aviation sector.